Are Long-Distance Relationships Possible?

I don't need to tell you how hard it is to meet your match. Someone to laugh with, someone to bond with, and someone you actually see yourself with for more than three months. Now what are the chances that you'll find that just right person in your city, much less in the same area code?

If the woman of your dreams is no further than a subway ride away, consider yourself lucky. But if not, then you're among the multitude of people who are trying to make long-distance relationships work. You might think it's an impossible task, and would never commit to a person in a different suburb than you, but tell that to the many love-seekers who rely on the phone, computer and frequent flyer points to make their romances work.

If you haven't experienced it yet, don't discard the chance right away — you could meet the woman of your dreams on a stopover while traveling, or maybe she's a tourist in your hometown. Check out whether a long-distance relationship is possible, how to make it work (if you want it to), and signs that it's time to say goodbye... in every form of communication.

greetings from afar

Unfortunately, there is no final answer. Distance can work against you, but it can also work for you, it all depends on how much you care about each other and making it work. Since you don't have regular date nights, constant intimacy, "quick fix" activities, and physical closeness to help your relationship blossom, it's up to both parties to nurture the romance and apply that extra effort necessary.

It also depends on the circumstances. There's a big difference between distance in an already established relationship and distance in one that has yet to develop — if your girlfriend is being transferred to another city for her career, for example, you already share memories and experiences to help bridge that gap. But what if the two of you meet in an Internet chat room — how do you even know you're right for each other without the necessary physical contact?

As well, we can't compare temporary and long-term distance; if you're sent overseas for six months, you know there's an end in sight, which makes it easier to survive the time spent apart.

make it work

Use technology While globalization can be the reason behind your separation — since travel has become a staple in many careers, and cyberspace has become the new way to meet people — you must take advantage of the different means of communication that can make you feel like you're next door to each other. Use e-mail several times per day, chat on the Net for hours, and talk face to face with the Internet and a Web cam. This is the closest you're going to get to a "real" conversation.

The Internet is particularly great as it eliminates long-distance telephone fees, and allows you to send detailed e-mail or even short e-greetings to show you're thinking about her.

If you're using the phone, set up telephone dates to ensure you speak and catch up.

Sign it's fizzling: She doesn't reply to your e-mail or phone calls, and offers no explanation.